The country’s overall citrus yield is set to fall 4.5 per cent this year
The citrus division of Israel’s Plants Production and Marketing Board has said that the country’s overall citrus forecast stands at 506,000 tonnes, down 4.5 per cent from the 529,000 tonnes harvested last year.
An increase in orange production is expected, rising 7 per cent from 131,000 tonnes to 138,000 tonnes, while grapefruit volumes are set to decline by about 5 per cent to 149,000 tonnes, with 44,000 tonnes designated for export.
Easy-peeler production is forecast to decrease by 13 per cent, from 170,000 tonnes to 149,000 tonnes.
Orri Jaffa mandarins account for 75 per cent of all easy-peelers, with 80,000 tonnes planned for export, similar to previous seasons.
Despite the lower volume, exporters are aiming to maintain similar quantities to last season, targeting North America and Europe while also exploring new markets.
Roni Nakar, manager of the citrus division at the Plants Production and Marketing Board, emphasised the importance of the Orri Jaffa while also expressing optimism for the future.
“We are expecting a successful marketing season,” Nakar confirmed. ”The recognition of the Orri Jaffa mandarin brand, along with other citrus varieties like Sweetie, red and white grapefruit, and lemons, will continue to provide great satisfaction to our worldwide loyal customers.”
He said that growers had shown a “remarkable” dedication to managing production and ensuring quality despite the risks created by the ongoing war in the region.
Orri Jaffa exporters will independently conduct sales promotions during the season.
Marketing activities and programmes have been scheduled in advance, Nakar outlined, but some were disrupted, such as the export plan to the Far East by conventional vessel which had been cancelled due to attacks by Yemen militias (Houthis) in the Red Sea.
